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Empowerment is the development of confidence in your own abilities. It starts by acknowledging and honoring the expertise students contribute to a class; it is a sharing of power among the class and the instructor which encourages us to be and do our best.

Empowerment increases the learner's self image and includes the ability to[1] :
  • Make decisions
  • Learn and access skills, information and resources
  • Consider a range of options
  • Exercise assertiveness
  • Influence others' perceptions, and
  • Utilize critical thinking


By shifting the focus from what the instructor is teaching to what and how a student learners, the instructor is honoring each individual's unique needs and contributions. When learners participate as partners in their learning students feel their presence and participation matter, thus increasing motivation.




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  1. ^ http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Empowerment